Track: Southern Section refuses to reinstate Gardena Serra relay team

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The Gardena Serra 400-meter relay team, one of the fastest in the state, was disqualified at the Del Rey League finals last week when a runner allegedly ran out of his lane, but the Southern Section is refusing to reinstate the team despite video evidence indicating the decision was incorrect.

Rainer Wulf, the Southern Section assistant commissioner in charge of track, said the team must have a time to qualify for this weekend’s prelims. No time was given because of the disqualification, and a protest must occur on the same day of the meet, according to the rules.

Serra officials said the starter erred in appointing two coaches from rival teams to serve as judges. Several days later, the starter rescinded her decision but that’s not good enough for the Southern Section, which has frustrated Serra officials.

‘When you have an official make a mistake, you shouldn’t penalize the kids,’ said Serra girls’ Coach Lori Thompson.

-- Eric Sondheimer